By Samuel Hanson HAGAN
Private Wireless Networks (PWNs) are dedicated communication systems tailored to the specific needs of organizations, offering enhanced security, reliability, and performance compared to public networks.
For Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in Ghana, PWNs present a significant opportunity to diversify services and tap into new revenue streams. The inception of the new government provides a promising backdrop for digital transformation.
With their substantial mandate, it is my prayer that the new leadership at the National Communications Authority (NCA) and with support from the new government will craft policies that encourage and facilitate the deployment of PWNs, fostering growth and innovation in the telecommunications sector.
The Arrival of 5G in Ghana
5G technology brings ultra-low latency, higher data transfer rates, and the ability to connect a massive number of devices simultaneously. These features make it ideal for PWN deployment in industries requiring high-performance connectivity.
Additionally, the coexistence of 5G and LTE networks enables MNOs to offer tailored solutions that meet diverse enterprise needs. LTE can serve as the backbone for less data-intensive applications, while 5G can power critical operations requiring high-speed and low-latency connectivity.
In a significant milestone, the Ministry of Communication and Digitalization in Ghana recently announced the availability of 5G networks in the country. This development positions Ghana at the forefront of digital transformation in West Africa, opening new possibilities for both consumers and enterprises. For MNOs, the introduction of 5G offers enhanced capabilities to support cutting-edge technologies, including Private Wireless Networks.
5G technology brings ultra-low latency, higher data transfer rates, and the ability to connect a massive number of devices simultaneously. These features make it ideal for PWN deployment in industries requiring high-performance connectivity.
Additionally, the coexistence of 5G and Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks enables MNOs to offer tailored solutions that meet diverse enterprise needs. LTE can serve as the backbone for less data-intensive applications, while 5G can power critical operations requiring high-speed and low-latency connectivity.
Advantages of Private Wireless Networks over Wi-Fi
While Wi-Fi remains a common choice for organizations, PWNs offer unparalleled advantages. They provide enhanced security by utilizing SIM-based authentication and licensed spectrum, significantly reducing vulnerabilities associated with Wi-Fi’s unlicensed and shared spectrum.
PWNs also deliver superior performance, with dedicated bandwidth ensuring reliable and consistent connectivity, even in high-density environments. Additionally, PWNs cover larger areas with fewer access points, making them ideal for expansive facilities such as airports, ports, and industrial complexes. The scalability of PWNs ensures that organizations can accommodate growing operational demands without compromising performance.
Enabling PWNs through Spectrum Allocation
One of the critical factors for deploying PWNs is access to spectrum. Spectrum is a finite resource, and its allocation plays a pivotal role in determining the success of private network deployments.
In Ghana, MNOs and the regulator (National Communications Authority (NCA)), can collaborate to allocate specific spectrum bands for enterprise use. Regulators can make licensed spectrum available through innovative policies, such as leasing arrangements or shared spectrum models, to enable organizations to deploy PWNs efficiently.
Smaller licensed Internet Service Providers (ISPs) can also partner with MNOs to develop PWN products. These partnerships allow ISPs to leverage the technical expertise and spectrum resources of MNOs while extending their reach to niche enterprise markets. This collaborative approach can create cost-effective and scalable PWN solutions, making advanced connectivity accessible to a broader range of businesses.
MNOs can act as facilitators by providing managed spectrum solutions, ensuring that enterprises access the right frequencies for their specific needs. This approach not only supports industry innovation but also opens new revenue streams for MNOs by creating partnerships with private and public organizations looking to deploy secure, high-performance networks.
Diverse Applications across Industries
PWNs have transformative potential across various sectors. At airports such as Ghana’s Kotoka International Airport, a PWN could enhance operations by enabling real-time tracking of baggage and cargo while supporting seamless communication for ground services.
In healthcare, hospitals can use PWNs to ensure secure and uninterrupted connectivity for telemedicine, patient monitoring, and advanced diagnostic tools. The manufacturing sector can adopt PWNs to power IoT-enabled production lines and autonomous robots, optimizing productivity and reducing downtime.
In agriculture, PWNs facilitate precision farming by connecting IoT sensors that monitor soil health, irrigation systems, and crop conditions. Similarly, logistics and transportation hubs, including ports and warehouses, benefit from real-time shipment tracking and efficient fleet management.
Government agencies and municipalities can leverage PWNs to support public safety initiatives, such as disaster response and smart city infrastructure. These networks also hold immense promise for the mining sector, enabling autonomous machinery, real-time monitoring of operations, and enhanced safety protocols.
Governments can also use PWNs for national projects, including secure networks for defense, disaster management, and nationwide digital transformation initiatives. These networks can enhance communication across ministries and public services, improving governance and service delivery.
Managed Services: A Game-Changer for Organizations
Managed services (MS) arrangements provide organizations with an alternative to managing PWNs internally. By outsourcing network management to MNOs or specialized providers, organizations can focus on their core operations while benefiting from expert oversight of their private networks.
These services typically include network design, deployment, monitoring, maintenance, and upgrades, ensuring optimal performance without the need for in-house technical expertise.
For businesses, managed services reduce operational complexity and costs associated with maintaining network infrastructure. They also enhance reliability and security, as service providers often implement the latest technologies and best practices.
In Ghana, the adoption of managed services can spur job creation as local service providers expand to meet the growing demand for PWN management. This expansion can create employment opportunities in network engineering, technical support, and analytics, contributing to the broader economy.
The Role of Leading Vendors
Several technology vendors are at the forefront of PWN solutions, offering specialized equipment tailored for diverse use cases:
Nokia: Provides the Nokia Digital Automation Cloud (DAC) platform, a ready-to-deploy private wireless solution with industrial-grade edge computing and IoT integration.
Ericsson: Offers the Ericsson Private 5G solution, which includes the Industry Connect platform designed for manufacturing and industrial automation.
Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE): Deploys the HPE Aruba AirSlice technology for optimized private 5G services and seamless integration with enterprise IT systems.
Cisco: Supplies the Cisco Ultra-Reliable Wireless Backhaul (URWB) and private 5G solutions, enabling flexible, secure, and scalable connectivity for enterprises.
These solutions cater to industries such as mining, manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare, ensuring reliable, high-performance networks for critical operations.
Benefits for Organizations and MNOs
For organizations, PWNs offer a range of benefits, including operational efficiency, enhanced security, and compliance with data protection regulations. They provide greater control over network performance and scalability, allowing businesses to adapt to evolving demands while safeguarding sensitive data.
Organizations can also purchase private SIMs and user equipment (UEs) tailored to enterprise needs, creating seamless and reliable connectivity for their operations. Managed services further streamline operations, ensuring continuous network optimization and expert support.
For MNOs, PWNs present multiple revenue-generating opportunities. Beyond leasing spectrum and managing networks, MNOs can capitalize on the sale of private SIM cards, devices, and UEs to enterprise clients. This creates a steady revenue stream while enhancing relationships with corporate customers.
Additionally, offering value-added services such as network customization, maintenance, and analytics strengthens MNOs’ roles as critical partners in enterprise growth. Partnering with smaller ISPs further expands their reach, tapping into niche markets and driving innovation in PWN offerings.
In conclusion, Private Wireless Networks represent a strategic opportunity for both MNOs and organizations in Ghana. By leveraging spectrum allocation, partnerships with smaller ISPs, managed service arrangements, and innovative deployment models, PWNs can drive efficiency, security, and connectivity across industries.
With additional revenue streams from private SIMs, UEs, and managed services, MNOs can secure a foothold in the burgeoning enterprise sector. The integration of 5G alongside LTE networks further enhances the possibilities for advanced PWN deployments, enabling high-performance solutions tailored to specific organizational needs.
The government’s role in adopting and supporting PWNs further underscores their transformative potential. As demand for tailored enterprise solutions grows, the adoption of PWNs can pave the way for a more connected and digitally empowered Ghana. The time is ripe for MNOs and regulators to collaborate and unlock the full potential of PWNs in transforming industries and driving economic growth.
Samuel is a Product / Programs Manager | Member, IIPGH
For comments, contact WhatsApp +233 507393640 or email [email protected]
